Are there toxins in your feminine hygiene products?

Many of us these days are becoming more conscious of what we put in our bodies. The importance of natural and organic foods is becoming more commonly known. These days almost every grocery store carries some variety of organic foods and natural products. But what about natural and organic feminine hygiene products?

The skin is the body’s largest and thinnest organ, being less than one-tenth of an inch thick. Skin is highly permeable, especially the skin in and around the vaginal area. Anything coming into contact with your skin will penetrate into your bloodstream and distribute throughout the body. Years of exposure to chemical-laden feminine hygiene products creates a toxic buildup in the body.

Conventional tampons, liners, and pads contain a combination of pesticides, BPA, rayon, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, bleach, polyester, chlorine, artificial colours, and more. They are also likely to contain GMOs. The consequences of using these conventional products can include:

abnormal tissue growth in the abdomen and reproductive organs

immune system suppression

hormonal and endocrine system disruption

infertility

birth defects

vaginal dryness

and more

How does this affect my hormones?

The toxic ingredients in conventional natural hygiene products have a negative effect on hormonal balance. Think about it. Pesticides, bleach, plastics, and more… In my vagina? No thank you! These xenoestrogens have direct contact with your reproductive organs for DAYS, on a monthly basis. There is no way that can be healthy! These toxins create an increase in estrogens in the body, which can lead to cramping, heavy bleeding, mood swings, and more. No wonder women are such a wreck when they’re on their periods. Organic tampons, liners, pads, and menstrual cups have no negative effects on your hormonal balance and are the absolute safest alternative.

Safe Alternatives and Solutions

Tampons

If you still want to use tampons, certified organic tampons are your best option. When purchasing, make sure the one and only ingredient is organic cotton. There is no need for any other ingredients. Popular brands include NatraCare and Organyc. They carry a wide variety of options. Even if you have a heavy flow, they carry highly absorbable tampons, just like the big brands. So you’re not missing out on anything, except for those awful chemicals.

Pads and Liners

For pads and liners it’s the same deal. 100% certified organic is the way to go. NatraCare and Organyc carry many types and sizes for all different needs and preferences. They are also just as effective as the big names.

If you’re looking for pads without the waste, try reusable and washable cloth pads. Lotus Liners offers awesome options with many different styles and designs. They come in really cute styles and many sizes, and they’re super functional and cost effective!

If you’re crafty you can even make your own reusable pads for less money. You can find tons of tutorials and designs on YouTube and Pinterest.

But what about the cost? Organic and reusable products will be more expensive than your conventional options. There’s no arguing against it. But conventional brands use cheap fillers to make their products, so it costs them pennies. It is absolutely worth paying a bit more for a quality product that is safe for your body and the planet. Thankfully there is another option though, that is the least expensive and is even cheaper than conventional products, and that is the reusable menstrual cup.

Menstrual Cups

Menstrual cups are a fantastic alternative to tampons and pads all together. They are the cheapest, safest for the planet, most convenient for use, and most comfortable and care-free. Quality brands use non-toxic silicone. I recommend DivaCup and Mooncup. A menstrual cup is a small reusable cup that you insert into the vagina and it catches your flow. Many are afraid to use it, but rest assured they are incredibly comfortable and easy to insert. Tutorials for use can be found online, but you get the hang of using it after 1-2 uses. Don’t be afraid to get down there and get to know yourself better! Inserting these are nothing to be afraid of. Menstrual cups have awesome perks and benefits such as:

You only need to empty it about every 12 hours (depending on your flow)

You can wear them overnight

You can wear them swimming, during extreme sports, and during yoga

No risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (like with tampons)

The least expensive option

Menstrual cups are around $40 and they last a very long time. DivaCup recommends replacing your cup once every year, but with proper care and cleaning they can last much longer. Your $30-$50 purchase costs as much as a few months of tampons, and is so worth the initial investment.

Mother Nature Doesn’t Like Your Period

Your period is “mother nature’s gift”, but mother nature does not like your period. The amount of waste from tampons, pads, and all of their packaging and processing is a big no-no for the environment. Organic pads and tampons are a significant improvement, because of the lack of chemicals and destructive farming. Even better of course are the reusable options above. We don’t need to pollute the planet to take care of ourselves. There are so many fantastic options for every body type and preference. Make the switch to one of these natural options and save your health, your money, and your planet.